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About Me

Hailing originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Barbara Klar opened her first store, Clear Metals, in NYC's East Village during the mid - 80's. In 1991 she moved that store into the Soho section of NYC where it was for ten years until June of 2001. Since that time, Barbara has moved her studio to Accord, New York, where she is currently expanding her website, her wholesale line and her special order commission work.

C lear Metals is a showcase to Barbara Klar's fascinating collection, a unique presentation of one-of-a kind and limited edition gold and silver jewelry which is completely designed and crafted by her in her Brooklyn studios. Originally a trained metalsmith, she was listed in NY Magazine as being one of the few jewelry designers who "will lend her eclectic touch to create just about anything her clients request, from unique wedding bands and pearl-drop earrings to chunky ID bracelets and mediaeval - style chains".

B arbara's work has been recognized on the editorial pages of Vogue, WWD, the New York Times and In-Style Magazine as well as featured on television shows such as "Friends", "Veronica's Closet" and "Judging Amy". Film credits have included " Meet The Parents", "Wall Street", "High Art". and the Eurythmic's "Missionary Man" video.

Symbolic, personal and timeless, Barbara Klar creates jewelry that becomes today's modern heirlooms. She combines elements of Celtic, Egyptian, and American Indian cultures with the symbology of contemporary Street Graffiti. Her cutting - edge designs often challenge the limitations of fine jewelry through her use of precious materials that are worked and designed into pieces that reveal a modern sensibility with a keen historical edge.

Tuesday, April 7, 2015

When
I make a piece of jewelry that someone wants to wear, it feeds my passion to
know that I have touched someone in a meaningful way when they choose to wear
my work close to their body. It is an intimate experience and it becomes a
personal talisman. I have always believed that jewelry is “armor for the world”
and we all need a little protection during our travels.

I
also have a passion for fashion. Even though I’m most comfortable wearing black
tee shirts and jeans, I have a deep fantasy life where I wear chiffon, brocade,
silk and velvet. In my mind, I dress like Brian Jones in the early Rolling
Stones.

There was a time during my life in NYC when the jewelry I made was
predominantly inspired by current fashion trends. As time went on, the
production schedules and fast-paced social calendars disguised as work took its
toll on my spirit, mind and body. I longed for the sustenance provided by
nature. Slowly I learned who I was and it became obvious that I had to return
to my core and explore the art of my work. That is when I moved upstate closer
to nature.I have never looked
back.

As
inspiring as it is, living in the country often feels isolating yet that’s
where connection comes in: modern connection. The internet is invaluable and
keeps me locked into trends and conversation. Recently, on my Facebook page, I
was so happy when two friends discussed my work and talent. The conversation
took place between an incredible photographer who is also a client and another
client who happens to be a very high-profile fashion insider. Their
conversation praised my talent, but the fashion insider alluded to the fact
that I should be more successful. I wasn’t successful, he hinted, because “she
has her own ways of doing things”.

His
words stung because it reminded me of another high-profile jewelry editor who,
years ago, upon finding out that I was moving out of NYC, shook my hand, looked
into my eyes and said: “Call me when you start making jewelry again“. Out of
sight out of mind, apparently.

Yes,
I have my own way of doing things. I think everyone does. What matters most is
following your heart and your dreams. I know jewelry is not brain surgery or
rocket fuel, but when we find meaning or joy in even the smallest tasks, it
propels us upon our journey. I am interested in your stories and your journeys.
Please take me with you. I’m delighted when you do.